SAM Cooke will lead Newtown into the Henshalls Shropshire Premier League season.

The long serving clubman takes over from Dave Anthony who will continue to represent the Recreation Ground club as player with Ally Laird stepping up vice captain.

Cooke expected another tough campaign while targeting a top four finish as Newtown continue in their role as Powys’ premier club in Shropshire cricket.

Cooke said: “We are in for a tough season but we are ready for the challenge.

“With the league structure being uncertain in 2019, our goal is to finish in the top four and to ensure our place in the Shropshire Premier League next season.”

Newtown have bolstered the squad with the addition of Welshpool allrounder Tom Anderson and batsman Matthew Knight.

Meanwhile the club has also recruited spinner Bryant Galpin from New Zealand side Wanguani.

Cooke backed the batting line up of Tom Goodman, Ryan Davies, Tom Foulkes and Jack Morris to play key roles in 2018.

Morris struck 217 runs last season and will look to build on his haul in 2018.

Meanwhile Cooke praised the competitiveness of the Anthony brothers whose annual battle for bowler of the year accolades have contributed to Town’s success over the years.

John ended 2017 in the Premier League team of the year with 42 wickets with brother Dave going into 2018 keen to improve on last summer’s haul of 34.

Captain Cooke will also look to lead from the front and goes into the summer on the back of a successful 2017 with 405 runs.

While Cooke will also have the wisdom of stalwarts batsman Dai Brown and bowler Craig Davies to call upon during the summer.

“With lots of players progressing, competition for places will push us all to perform,” said Cooke.

“We challenge each player to improve upon last year’s performance, to respect officials, to respect our opponents and contribute to the continual improvement of our club.”